Rusty license plate screws can be very difficult to remove. Over time, exposure to water and road salt causes the screws to corrode, fusing them to the license plate frame. Removing them takes patience and the right tools. Typically, a screwdriver won’t be enough to free the stubborn screws. More force and leverage is needed to break them loose.
How to Remove Rusted License Plate Screws?” This is a common frustration for car owners. The rusted screws refuse to budge no matter how hard you try with an ordinary screwdriver. It’s a tedious task trying to pry off the old license plate when the screws barely move. Don’t give up though, as there are some simple tips to remove even the most stuck rusted screws.
Getting rid of rust and freeing the license plate screws is possible with some lubricant and the right tools. A lubricant like WD-40 helps penetrate and loosen the bonds caused by rust and corrosion. Using vice grips or pliers gives more twisting force. In extreme cases, cutting off the screws may be the only way to remove the old license plate. With some patience and elbow grease, you can defeat those stubborn rusted screws.
Tools Are Needed To Remove Rusted License Plate Screws
To remove rusted license plate screws, you will need penetrating oils like WD-40 or PB Blaster to loosen the rust, along with standard tools like screwdrivers, pliers, and wrenches to try removing the screws.
If the rust is very stubborn, you may also need specialty tools like an impact wrench, drill, or even a blow torch to apply extra force or heat to break the rust bond. Having an assortment of both manual and power tools on hand gives you the best chance of success.
Causes License Plate Screws To Rust
5 easy short sentences on the causes of license plate screws to rust:
- Water getting trapped behind the plate causes rust.
- Road salt and winter conditions lead to rust.
- Bare metal touching the car’s paint causes rust.
- Poor quality screws that aren’t stainless steel rust easier.
- Not cleaning behind the plate allows dirt and moisture to cause rust.
What Steps Should Be Taken Before Trying To Remove Rusted License Plate Screws?
Before attempting removal, first spray penetrating oil onto the rusted screws and let it soak in for 10-15 minutes. Tap gently on the screws with a hammer to vibrate and loosen the rust. Apply heat from a hair dryer or heat gun to expand the metal.
Check that you have the proper screwdriver or socket that fits snugly. Have backup tools ready like pliers, wrenches and a power drill. Work slowly with controlled force to avoid damaging the screw heads or threads.
What Precautions Should Be Taken When Removing Rusted License Plate Screws?
Safety precautions include wearing gloves to protect your hands, goggles to shield your eyes, and having a fire extinguisher on hand if applying heat. Work cautiously to avoid stripping the screws or damaging the license plate and vehicle.
Take your time and don’t force tools beyond their limits. Applying too much torque risks breaking a tool or screw. If screws won’t budge with reasonable force, Size Of License Plate Screws consider alternatives like drilling them out instead.
Prepare To Remove Rusted License Plate Screws
Recommended supplies to have on hand include penetrating oils like WD-40 or PB Blaster to break down rust, as well as tools like pliers, screwdrivers, socket wrenches, an impact wrench, or a channel lock that fit precisely onto the screw head.
Allow penetrating oils to sit for 15+ minutes before attempting to loosen the screws. You may also try household items like cola or lemon juice. No parts need to be removed beforehand.
Supplies Are Recommended To Have On Hand To Remove Rusted License Plate Screws
| Supplies | Reason |
| WD-40 spray | Penetrates rust |
| Vice grips | Grip rounded screws |
| Channel lock pliers | Grip without slots |
| Penetrating oil | Loosen stuck screws |
| Flat head screwdriver | Tap into screw |
| Hammer | Tap screwdriver into screw |
| Hacksaw | Cut screw if needed |
Should Any Parts Be Removed Before Attempting To Loosen Rusted License Plate Screws?
No parts need to be removed beforehand when trying to loosen rusted license plate screws. You can apply penetrating oils directly to the rusted screws still attached to the license plate. Just allow time for the oils to work at breaking down the rust before attempting to loosen with tools.
License Plate Screws Spin Freely And Don’t Come Loose
If the screws just spin freely without coming loose, try gripping them tightly with pliers or a channel lock wrench while turning slowly. The tight grip may provide enough friction to finally loosen the spins. Soaking in more penetrating oil may also help break the rust further. If that still doesn’t work, more forceful brute force methods may be needed.
Wd-40 Or Penetrating Oil Doesn’t Break The Rust On License Plate Screws
If WD-40 or oils don’t penetrate the rust enough, try household items like cola, lemon juice, or hydrogen peroxide instead. The acidity in these items helps break down rust. Also, ensure you allow adequate time (15+ minutes) for any penetrating liquids before attempting to loosen screws. More time may be needed for extremely rusted screws. Impact wrenches also supply added torque versus hand tools.
What to Do Once the Rusted License Plate Screws Are Out
Once the rusted screws are removed, the holes should be cleaned out to remove any remaining rust or corrosion. This can be done by running a tap through the holes to clear out debris. Applying a corrosion inhibitor to the empty holes will help prevent future rust.
Empty License Plate Screw Holes Once The Rusty Screws Are Removed
The license plate screw holes need to be cleaned thoroughly of any remaining rust or corrosion once the screws are out. Running a tap or threaded screw through the holes will help clear them out in preparation for new screws.
Should Anything Be Applied To New License Plate Screws Before Reinstalling Them?
Before installing new license plate screws, applying threadlocker or another anti-seize compound will help prevent the screws from rusting and seizing in place again. Stainless steel screws can also be used for rust prevention.
Prevent Future Rust And Corrosion On License Plate Screws
To prevent future rust and corrosion on license plate screws, use stainless steel screws or apply an anti-seize compound to the threads. Parking the vehicle out of the elements when possible will also reduce exposure to moisture that causes rust. Periodically removing and cleaning the screws can help as well.
Professional Mechanic Be Brought In To Deal With Rusted License Plate Screws
If the license plate screws are so badly rusted that normal methods of removal are not working, it’s best to have a professional mechanic brought in. Mechanics have more advanced tools and methods for dealing with severely seized and corroded screws. They can extract screws with less risk of damage to the vehicle.
Cleaning Up Rust and Corrosion Caused by the License Plate Screws
The best technique for removing rust stains from license plate screws is to use a penetrating oil like WD-40 or another rust removal spray. Let it soak in for 10-15 minutes before trying to loosen the screws with pliers or a screwdriver. For stubborn rust, a drill or Dremel tool may be needed to grind away corrosion so the screws can be removed.
Techniques Work Best For Removing Rust Stains Caused By Corroded License Plate Screws
Once the screws are out, rust stains can be removed with oxalic acid-based rust removers, naval jelly, or even home remedies like lemon juice mixed with salt or baking soda. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing. Repeat as needed for tough stains.
Fix Damage To The Paint Caused By Rusty License Plate Screws
Use automotive sandpaper to smooth any raised edges or damage around the screw holes. Wipe clean and apply primer to the sanded areas before spraying on color-matched automotive touch up paint. Allow to fully cure.
What Needs To Be Done To Re-Tap Damaged License Plate Screw Holes?
If the screw holes are badly damaged or stripped, purchase and use a license plate hole tap and die set to re-thread the holes. Insert the tap and turn clockwise with a wrench to cut new threads. Use cutting oil and remove metal shavings as you work.
Touch Up Paint Be Applied Once Rust Damage From License Plate Screws Is Cleaned Up
Touch up paint should be lightly sprayed or brushed directly onto any exposed metal and sanded areas around the screw holes after cleaning up any rust damage. Allow paint to fully cure before reinstalling the license plate.
Preventing Future Rust Problems with the License Plate Screws
License plate screws should be inspected and removed for cleaning every 6 months to prevent rust buildup. The screws can be soaked in a rust remover like WD-40 to clean them before reinstalling with a rust-preventing lubricant on the threads. Using stainless steel or nylon screws will also help prevent future rust.
License Plate Screws Be Inspected And Removed For Cleaning
License plate screws should be periodically inspected every 6 months and removed for cleaning to prevent rust buildup. More frequent cleaning may be needed in wet climates or winter conditions with salt on the roads.
Metal Is Most Rust-Resistant For License Plate Screws In Wet Environments
Stainless steel license plate screws provide the most rust resistance, with marine grade 316 stainless steel being the most corrosion resistant option suitable for very wet environments. Nylon screws are also resistant to rust.
Applied To License Plate Screw Holes When Reinstalling Screws To Prevent Rust
When reinstalling license plate screws, a rust-preventing lubricant like WD-40 Specialist Spray Grease can be applied to the screw holes and screw threads to protect against moisture and prevent future rust.
License Plates And Screws Be Stored Between Use To Keep Them From Rusting
License plates and screws should be stored in a dry indoor location when not in use on a vehicle to prevent rusting. A closet, cabinet, or drawer works well for protected storage between uses.
Frequently Asked Question
What Kind Of Oil Helps Loosen Rusted Screws?
Penetrating oils like WD-40 or PB Blaster can seep into rust and help loosen the screw.
Can I Use A Propane Torch To Loosen The Screws?
Yes, applying low to moderate heat from a small torch for 5-15 seconds can help break the rust seal.
My Screwdriver Won’t Grip The Stripped Screw Head – What Now?
Try vice grips, pliers or hammer a flathead screwdriver into the screw to turn.
The Screws Won’t Budge! What’s My Last Resort?
You may need to drill out the screws if other methods don’t get them to turn.
How Do I Avoid This Rust Problem In The Future?
Apply threadlocker or antioxidant grease to the screws when installing new license plates.
Conclusion
Removing rusted license plate screws can be challenging if the rust has caused them to become stuck or stripped. First, try spraying the screws with a penetrating oil like WD-40 and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. This can help loosen the bonds causing it to stick. Next, use a screwdriver or drill that fits snugly in the screw head, applying firm pressure while slowly turning counter-clockwise.
If the head strips, you may need to use locking pliers or an extractor set to grip and turn the screw shaft. If that fails, drilling out the old screw may be needed. Once removed, clean the screw holes thoroughly and apply a rust prevention spray before installing new stainless steel or nylon replacement screws, which resist rust.
Place nylon washers between the plate and car body to prevent future corrosion. Be sure to periodically check license plate screws so that heavy rust buildup does not occur. Addressing them early makes removal much easier. Proper preparation and quality hardware will help prevent rusted license plate screws from ever becoming an issue.
